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7’4 Center and Former Gonzaga Target Enters Transfer Portal

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Blayne Gilmer | Last updated Apr 21, 2025 3:28 PM ET

Naheem McLeod, the towering 7-foot-4 center, has re-entered the NCAA transfer portal after spending two seasons at Syracuse. The former Florida State Seminole originally transferred to the Orange two offseasons ago but will now seek a new home for the 2025 campaign. With his size, shot-blocking instincts, and prior high-major experience, McLeod is sure to draw interest again, and one program to watch is Gonzaga.

The Zags showed interest in McLeod when he first entered the transfer portal from Florida State, and this time around, that interest may be even stronger. Gonzaga assistant coach R-Jay Barsh, who was part of the Florida State staff during McLeod’s stint in Tallahassee, has a well-established relationship with the big man. Barsh’s familiarity with McLeod’s game and his development make Gonzaga a logical suitor as they continue to retool their frontcourt depth.

NEWS: Syracuse big man Naheem McLeod is entering the transfer portal, he told @LeagueRDY.

McLeod is a 7-foot-4 big man who began his career playing two seasons at Florida State before playing the last two at Syracuse.

For his career, he’s averaged 3.7PPG, 2.6RPG and 1.0BPG. pic.twitter.com/8LdLeXri8A
— Sam Kayser (@247HSHoops) April 21, 2025

McLeod’s collegiate production has been modest, averaging 3.7 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 1.0 blocks during his time at Florida State and Syracuse, but his defensive upside remains enticing. At Syracuse, injuries limited his impact, but when healthy, his sheer presence in the paint altered shots and provided rim protection that’s tough to teach. His rare blend of length and mobility gives him value in a system that prioritizes interior defense—something Mark Few and the Zags have historically emphasized.

McLeod’s ability to seal defenders deep in the post, his timing as a shot-blocker, and the footwork he displays on defensive switches are traits that will intrigue a lot of coaching staffs. With better conditioning and the right developmental environment, McLeod could still reach another level in his game.

Gonzaga is expected to be active in the transfer portal, especially when it comes to adding size and rim protection. A renewed pursuit of McLeod could make perfect sense. Given the history with Barsh and Gonzaga’s success developing big men, don’t be surprised if Spokane becomes a serious landing spot this time around.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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